Recharge at this all-suite, all inclusive resort that takes luxury to the next level. With a friendly staff, on-site activities, phenomenal cuisine and award-winning spa, this beachfront Leading Hotel of the World property is truly a piece of serenity. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is also a great choice for those looking for a wellness retreat.
THE SUITE LIFE
Inside my wellness suite, I find a Lifecycle recumbent bicycle and exercise kit while in my minibar there is a complimentary selection of dried fruit, nuts and seeds, cereal bars and wellness drinks (flavoured water, coconut water and energy drinks). Though these help to balance out my indulgent side, I quickly learn that a selection of dessert for lunch at Azul and each night is obligatory (Paris brest, clafoutis and chocolate mousse, anyone?). I blame the pastry chefs. On most evenings, I climb onto my second floor private terrace and step into the jacuzzi to enjoy the view of the cerulean sea framing the Sierra Madre mountains in the distance.
SENSE(ATIONAL)
From the minute I step onto the grounds I realize that I’ve not only arrived at a hotel but I’m also in for an experience. Check-in revolves around a cold glass of hibiscus tea, fennel infused hand towel and welcome massage and I am soon introduced to my personal concierge Luis who routinely checks in throughout my stay to schedule dinner reservations and activities at the resort and to ensure that I am well attended to each day. At the spa, each treatment begins with a hydrotherapy water ceremony that includes differing water features and temperatures that begins the relaxation process. My serenity full body massage leaves me both invigorated and relaxed.
CULINARY JOURNEY
Each of the three gourmet restaurants are a culinary journey. Inspired by the Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo, the menu at Frida features a range of vibrant cuisine from around the country with a modern twist (think creamy avocado azcamolli, huitlacoche and shrimp tamal, and Mezcal infused watermelon salad) while classic French techniques are flawlessly executed in rich dishes like lobster bisque, foie gras and scottish salmon served with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce at Piaf. At newly renovated Lucca, Italian cuisine reigns with a range of exceptional pizza, and Mediterranean classics like melanzana alla Toscana. Don’t leave without ordering the house made pasta- the chitarra duck papardelle and ricotta filled tortellini both of which are divine creations. Pairings by sommelier Kritzia Barrientos Eggers are flawless including introductions to some standout wine from Mexico’s Baja peninsula.
HOW TO BOOK
We choose this hotel as part of an air and hotel package from award winning Sunwing.
WHAT TO DO IN AND AROUND RIVIERA NAYARIT?
There is so much to do at the resort and in the surrounding beaches that you may never want to leave Grand Velas. If you want to venture out for a day to see this sights, CSL shows you what to do in Puerto Vallarta.
This original hotel article first appeared in the Winter 2017/18 issue of City Style and Living Magazine
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